About this stotra
This popular and protective verse is traditionally chanted before sleep to ward off nightmares and negative energies. The shloka calls upon four powerful deities, each embodying unparalleled strength, courage, and divine protection. By remembering these deities before sleeping, the mantra ensures peace of mind and safety from disturbances.
The first deity mentioned is Rāma, referred to as Rāmaskandha, highlighting his broad shoulders and his role as the upholder of dharma and protector of righteousness. Alternatively, some interpret Skanda as a reference to Kartikeya, the divine general and protector against evil forces.
Next is Hanuman, renowned for his immense strength, unwavering devotion, and fearless nature, making him a powerful guardian against harm.
Vainateya (Garuda) - The divine eagle and vehicle of Lord Vishnu, is known for his unparalleled speed, vigilance, and the power to neutralize poisons and negative forces.
Bhima, called Vṛkodara ("wolf-bellied"), represents physical might, determination, and resilience, qualities that inspire inner strength.
This combination creates a comprehensive protective shield: embodying divine righteousness, devoted service, freedom from negativity, and physical protection during sleep.
॥ १ ॥♪ CHANTING NOW
Verse 1
Ramaskandham Hanumantham – Verse 1
रामस्कन्धं हनुमन्तं वैनतेयं वृकोदरं
शयने यः स्मरेन्नित्यं दुःस्वप्नस्तस्य नश्यति
rāmaskandhaṃ hanumantaṃ vainateyaṃ vṛkodaraṃ
śayane yaḥ smarennityaṃ duḥsvapnastasya naśyati
Praying to Lords Rama, Skanda (Subrahmanya), Hanumantha, Vainateya (Garuda), and Bhima before going to bed daily, ensures a peaceful sleep without disturbing dreams.
Word by word
- रामस्कन्धं (rāmaskandhaṃ)
- Rama and Skanda (rāma:Rama | skandhaṃ:Skanda)
- हनुमन्तं (hanumantaṃ)
- Hanuman
- वैनतेयं (vainateyaṃ)
- Vainateya (Garuda)
- वृकोदरं (vṛkodaraṃ)
- Bhima
- शयने (śayane)
- in bed
- यः (yaḥ)
- who
- स्मरेत् (smaret)
- remembers
- नित्यं (nityaṃ)
- daily
- दुःस्वप्नः (duḥsvapnaḥ)
- bad dreams
- तस्य (tasya)
- his
- नश्यति (naśyati)
- are destroyed